Natural Gas Compressor Station Safety Inspection Checklist

Compressor station inspections maintain safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance for natural gas transmission and gathering operations. This monthly checklist covers all key inspection requirements per PHMSA 49 CFR Part 192 and EPA emissions standards.

  • Industry: Oil & Gas / Energy
  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Operations Technician / Facility Manager
  • Total Items: 32
  • Compliance: PHMSA 49 CFR Part 192 - Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline, API RP 11PGT - Packaged Gas Turbines for Petroleum, Chemical, and Gas Industry Services, EPA 40 CFR Part 60 Subpart JJJJ - Stationary Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Engines, NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code

Compressor Units

Inspect compressor unit condition.

  • All operating compressor units functioning within normal parameters?
  • No unusual vibration, noise, or temperature indicating mechanical issues?
  • Lube oil levels within operating range?
  • Cooling systems (air or water) functioning properly?
  • Compressor inlet filters clean and within replacement schedule?
  • Vibration monitoring data within alarm thresholds?

Gas Detection and Fire Safety

Verify gas detection and fire systems.

  • Fixed combustible gas detectors calibrated and operational?
  • No active gas leaks detected or visible per OGI patrol?
  • Fixed fire suppression system operational?
  • Portable fire extinguishers within inspection date?
  • Flame detector self-test passed?

Pressure Relief and ESD

Verify pressure protection systems.

  • Pressure relief valves within test date per API 520/521?
  • High-pressure shutdown devices tested and set at correct setpoints?
  • Emergency shutdown (ESD) valves exercised and functional?
  • No unauthorized bypasses on safety instrumentation?
  • Engine/turbine overspeed trip devices tested?

Air Emissions Compliance

Verify emissions controls.

  • LDAR monitoring of centrifugal compressor wet seal degassing systems current?
  • Compressor engine operating within permit emission limits?
  • Catalytic converter or oxidizer maintained per manufacturer schedule?
  • Blowdown gas captured or flared - not vented to atmosphere?
  • Annual emissions inventory current for station equipment?

Electrical and Mechanical Systems

Inspect electrical and mechanical systems.

  • Electrical panels closed with no bypassed breakers?
  • No unauthorized equipment in classified (Class I, Div 1/2) areas?
  • Grounding and bonding connections intact at all equipment?
  • Facility lighting functional including explosion-proof fixtures?
  • HVAC system functioning and maintaining non-classified areas under positive pressure?

Documentation and Records

Maintain inspection records.

  • Equipment maintenance log current for all units?
  • Gas detector calibration records current?
  • Emergency contacts and notification procedures posted?
  • Monthly inspection records retained per PHMSA requirements?
  • Operator Qualification (OQ) current for all personnel per 49 CFR 192?
  • Monthly station inspection report completed?

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Why Use This Natural Gas Compressor Station Safety Inspection Checklist?

This natural gas compressor station safety inspection checklist helps oil & gas / energy teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for operations technician / facility manager professionals, this checklist covers 32 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.

Ensures compliance with PHMSA 49 CFR Part 192 - Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline, API RP 11PGT - Packaged Gas Turbines for Petroleum, Chemical, and Gas Industry Services, EPA 40 CFR Part 60 Subpart JJJJ - Stationary Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Engines, NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Natural Gas Compressor Station Safety Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 32 inspection items across 6 sections: Compressor Units, Gas Detection and Fire Safety, Pressure Relief and ESD, Air Emissions Compliance, Electrical and Mechanical Systems, Documentation and Records. It is designed for oil & gas / energy operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this Natural Gas Compressor Station Safety Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Operations Technician / Facility Manager professionals in the oil & gas / energy industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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